WHO unveils comprehensive guidelines to help millions quit tobacco

The new WHO guidelines on tobacco cessation aims to enhance global access to effective cessation aids, underscoring WHO's commitment to addressing disparities in healthcare access

"Combining pharmacotherapy with behavioural interventions significantly increases quitting success rates," new World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines on tobacco cessation highlight.

In a landmark move, the WHO has unveiled comprehensive guidelines to assist the more than 750 million people worldwide seeking to quit tobacco use.

This first-ever guideline on tobacco cessation advocates for a holistic approach, integrating behavioural support, digital interventions, and pharmacological treatments to address the  global health issue.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, highlighted the significance of these guidelines in the ongoing battle against tobacco-related diseases.

"This guideline marks a crucial milestone in our global battle against these dangerous products," he stated.

"It empowers countries with the essential tools to effectively support individuals in quitting tobacco and alleviate the global burden of tobacco-related diseases.."

Despite the widespread desire to quit tobacco, according to the WHO over 70 per cent of those attempting cessation lack access to adequate support services.

This is primarily due to resource constraints within healthcare systems.

The WHO's guideline have urged governments to prioritise accessibility by offering medications such as varenicline, Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), bupropion, and cytisine at reduced or no cost, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Since initiating a prequalification procedure for tobacco cessation medications in 2023, the WHO has recently approved Kenvue's nicotine gum and patch as the first WHO-prequalified NRT products.

This step aims to enhance global access to effective cessation aids, underscoring WHO's commitment to addressing disparities in healthcare access.

Behavioural interventions also play a crucial role in the guidelines, advocating for brief counselling sessions in healthcare settings and more intensive support through individual, group, or telephonic counselling.

Digital interventions, such as smartphone applications and online programs, are recommended as additional support tools throughout the quitting process.

Dr. Rüdiger Krech, WHO's Director of Health Promotion, emphasised the collaborative effort required to tackle tobacco use.

"These guidelines are designed to empower communities and governments to provide the best possible support for individuals on this challenging journey," he stressed.

The release of WHO's comprehensive tobacco cessation guidelines represents a significant step towards reducing the global burden of tobacco-related diseases and improving public health worldwide.

Healthcare providers, policymakers, and stakeholders are urged to adopt and implement these guidelines to support millions in achieving tobacco-free lives.